James “Jap” Wade Jr., 81 of Jasper was called home to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, January 1. Born on March 4, 1944 to James Wade (Way) and Addie B. Tillison, James lived a life rooted in faith, family, and simple joys. He attended Unity Community Church, which carried his faith with quiet strength and sincerity. He worked for Rock Tenn for 12 years as a dedicated Hyster/Forklift driver, known for his strong work ethic and steady presence. James found joy in the outdoors and the everyday pleasures of life. He loved fishing, grilling and barbecuing, playing spades, mowing, and tending to his yard and flowers. His hands were rarely still and his heart was always open. Above all, James cherished the time he spent with his family and friends. Those who knew him will remember his easy smile, his kindness, and the way he made every gathering feel a little warmer. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and faith that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.
James is preceded in death by his father James Wade (Way), mother Addie B Tillison and wife Lila Marie Wade.
Left to cherish his memories are his sons James Wade, Anthony Wade, James Lavelle (Jerri) Wade, James (Vickie) Appling, Curtis Donahue, Andrew Teague and Robert (Jackie) Zachary, daughters Cathy Moore, Glenda (Clifford) Humphrey, Belinda (Lanny) Swafford and Delilah Freeman, 20 grandchildren, several great grandchildren, as well as other family members and special friends.
Visitation is on Saturday, January 10 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Tate Funeral Home in Jasper.
Funeral services are also on Saturday, January 10 at 12 p.m. in the Chapel of Tate Funeral Home in Jasper.
James will be laid to rest on Saturday, January 10 at Sequatchie Valley Memorial Gardens in Jasper immediately following the funeral service.
Pallbearers are Lamar Wade, Alonzo Teague, Billy Pickett Alfonzo Teague, Jason Acker, Jason Pickett, LeBron Pickett and Jimmy Hinkles.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Tate Funeral Home, LLC, 950 Mel Dixon Lane, Jasper, Tennessee 37347, 423-942-9500.
The Marion Tribune – January 8, 2026